Revolutionary Drilling Technology Cuts Connection Times by 50% in Côte d’Ivoire
Expro has successfully completed the first deepwater deployment of its innovative Autonomous iTONG system during a well construction program at the Eni-operated Baleine Field offshore Côte d’Ivoire, delivering remarkable efficiency gains and cost savings.
The cutting-edge system, which first operated in Norwegian waters in 2021, was deployed aboard the Deep Value Driller drillship following Expro’s contract award in late 2023. The current project involves further expansion of production from the Baleine Field.
The iTONG system represents a significant advancement in drilling safety and efficiency, removing the need for personnel to work in the hazardous Red Zone of the rig floor. It automates the connection make-up and break-out of casing and tubing joints, providing precise torque control from a single button operated from the driller’s cabin.
The results have been impressive, with connection make-up times reduced by 50% and cost savings estimated at approximately $200,000 per well. Park-to-park connection times have been slashed from 180 seconds to just 90 seconds compared to previous remote technologies.
Beyond the immediate operational benefits, the system contributes to reduced CO2 emissions throughout well construction, aligning with the industry’s increasing focus on environmental sustainability.
Source: offshore-mag.com